National Underground Railroad Freedom Center Welcomes New President
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
National Underground Railroad Freedom Center Welcomes New President
Woodrow Keown, Jr. steps into role Nov 15
CINCINNATI, OH (November 15, 2019) – The National Underground Railroad Freedom Center (NURFC) today named Woodrow “Woody” Keown, Jr. president and chief operating officer. Keown follows Dion Brown in the role.
“We are grateful to Mr. Brown for his service to the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center and the passion with which he led our organization,” said Beverly A. Grant, chair of the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center’s board of trustees.
“Dion’s skills in programming and operations helped move the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center forward during his tenure,” said Elizabeth Pierce, CEO.
Mr. Brown shared, “I am thankful for the time and season to lead the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center. The team has produced at such a high level and will continue to as they move from “Great to Greatness.”
KEOWN TO GROW CENTER EFFORTS
Among his responsibilities, Mr. Keown will lead growth in revenue and contributions as the institution celebrates its 15th year of operation with a robust schedule of exhibitions. These include Motel X, Slavery at Jefferson’s Monticello and the current exhibition Men of Change, a collaboration with the Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition Service. This year also marks the 55th anniversary of Freedom Summer, which NURFC is commemorating with a series of lectures and outreach.
“The mission of the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center is needed now more than ever,” said Keown. “As we strive for inclusive freedom of all people we look to learn from the lessons of the past. I’m emboldened to step into this role as we continue to be that beacon of hope, freedom and change for our community – locally, nationally and globally.”
“We are excited to welcome Mr. Keown as our new president. His advocacy for inclusive freedom around the globe and his leadership can take us to the next level.” said Elizabeth Pierce, CEO. “Woody brings a vision for and proven success in fundraising, as well as the business acumen to ensure we can create an even greater impact.”
